DNA, Genes, & Their Real-World Applications

Our exploration of genetics continues where last semester's class ended. We begin around 1990, when the Human Genome Project began, and continue to the present day. We will cover recombinant DNA, genetic engineering, PCR and CRISPR techniques, forensic science, evolution, genetic screening, the immune system, cancer, cloning, stem cells, and gene therapy. Videos from The Great Course, Understanding Genetics: DNA, Genes, and Their Real-World Applications, TED talks, and other current material will shape our course. We will complete lab activities and simulations, where appropriate. Students will be encouraged to pose questions related to the next weekly topic; answers will be incorporated into class presentations. It is expected that you have some understanding of the structure of DNA and knowledge of Mendelian genetics, as this is the second course in this two-course series.

There are no scheduled sessions at this time. Sign up to be notified when this course is available.